COLUMBUS, Ohio — While Alcohol Awareness Month has ended, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Liquor Control reminds Ohio consumers, community officials and permit holders that the commitment to promoting safe and responsible alcohol practices requires a year-round effort.

Whether it’s through adhering to legal guidelines, encouraging moderation or fostering community discussions about the impact of alcohol misuse, DOLC encourages everyone to prioritize safety, responsibility and well-being every day.

“As a key part of Ohio’s communities and economy, alcohol requires careful and responsible stewardship,” DOLC Superintendent Jackie DeGenova said. “By fostering awareness and collaboration, we can uphold safety and encourage responsibility.”

To equip Ohioans with the information they need to ensure alcohol responsibility in their communities, DOLC is highlighting the role it plays in regulating alcohol, promoting responsible consumption, and sharing online resources to inform consumers and permitholders alike.

Understanding Roles: DOLC oversees approximately 28,000 businesses involved in alcohol manufacturing, distribution and retail. In addition, DOLC registers out-of-state suppliers, nonprofit organizations for special events, and solicitors.

DOLC collaborates with other state agencies such as the Liquor Control Commission and the Ohio Department of Public Safety’s Ohio Investigative Unit. In addition, DOLC works with local governments and community institutions to enforce liquor laws, manage permit objections, and support the use of economic development tools such as Designated Outdoor Refreshment Areas (DORAs) and Community Entertainment or Revitalization districts.

Additionally, the Division’s Licensing Section offers online databases for Ohioans including ones to verify a permit holder’s information and operating privileges, the registration of alcohol-based products, pending permit applications on file, and a permit holder’s violation history. These tools empower Ohioans to help ensure safety and compliance in their communities.

Promoting Responsibility: Ohio Liquor (OHLQ), a public-private partnership between DOLC and the JobsOhio Beverage System, promotes responsible consumption, harm prevention, and underage drinking prevention while setting a standard for responsible marketing of high-proof spirits. OHLQ also supports Ohio communities through volunteerism, tourism promotion, and supporting small businesses in the spirits industry, all while prioritizing stewardship of resources and the environment.

Highlighting Resources: OHLQ offers a wide range of resources to help promote responsible and safe consumption. For example, OHLQ provides tools like a blood alcohol content calculator, screening tools, mocktail recipes and educational articles to help individuals evaluate their relationship with alcohol.

For more information about DOLC, visit com.ohio.gov/Liquor.